According to state law, a student receiving a certificate of achievement or completion has the right to participate in graduation ceremonies and any school activity related to graduation.[1] Districts, may, but are not required, to award a certificate of achievement or completion.[2] However, if participating in graduation-related activities is specified in your child’s IEP (as part of their participation in integrated activities at school), the district must implement the IEP and allow them to participate in the graduation activities whether they are receiving a certificate of completion/achievement or not. You should address this participation in the IEP, beginning with your discussion of transition, at age 16 or younger. This will ensure enough time to take any necessary action to resolve disagreements before the graduation ceremony.